Recipe for Alabama-Style White Barbecue Sauce
Barbecue enthusiasts, get ready to elevate your grilling game with this unique and tantalizing Alabama-style white barbecue sauce! Originating from the heart of North Alabama, this mayonnaise-based sauce has been a southern favorite for generations. Unlike the typical red, vinegar-based BBQ sauces, this white sauce offers a creamy, tangy alternative that’s perfect for a variety of dishes. In this post we will walk you through this recipe for Alabama-Style White Barbecue Sauce that the whole family will love.
Jump to RecipeA Brief History of the Alabama-Style White Barbecue Sauce
Alabama white sauce was created in the early 20th century by Bob Gibson, a BBQ restaurant owner in Decatur, Alabama. This original recipe was a simple mixture of mayonnaise, vinegar, and pepper, but over the years, it has evolved. It’s known for its rich flavor and versatility, making it a staple in Southern living and BBQ cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mayonnaise (mayonnaise base)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup prepared horseradish (creamy horseradish sauce)
- 2 tbsp spicy brown mustard
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
Preparation
Gather all the following ingredients. Alabama white BBQ sauce is known for its simple ingredients, so this recipe is easy to follow and prepare.
Mixing the Sauce
In a large bowl or medium bowl, or even directly in a mason jar for ease, place mayonnaise as the base of the sauce. Add the heavy cream, apple cider vinegar, prepared horseradish, spicy brown mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
Combining Ingredients
Shake or whisk vigorously until well mixed. The consistency should be creamy and smooth, with a rich flavor profile from the tangy vinegar and the heat of the cayenne and black pepper.
Storing the Sauce
Store the sauce in an airtight container or the mason jar in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the tangy and spicy taste.
Uses for Alabama White Barbecue Sauce
As a Dipping Sauce
Great with chicken wings, french fries, or as a tangy dip for vegetables.
BBQ Marinade
Use it as a marinade for pork chops, chicken breasts, or even beef brisket for that next-level BBQ experience.
Salad Dressing
A great addition to your salad dressing collection, adding a southern twist to your greens.
Finishing Sauce
Perfect as a finishing sauce at the end of cooking smoked chicken or bbq chicken. We love warming this sauce in a small sauce pan and pouring it over our homemade airfryer meatballs!
BBQ Staple
Ideal for basting whole chickens or pork tenderloin during grilling or smoking.
Tips and Variations
Add Hot Sauce
For those who enjoy an extra kick, adding a few dashes of hot sauce can elevate the spice level.
Vinegar Variation
Substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar or white vinegar for a different tangy taste.
Creamier Version
Add sour cream or swap heavy cream with buttermilk for a creamier texture.
Herb Additions
Enhance the sauce with fresh herbs or a dash of dry rub for additional layers of flavor.
Why This Sauce is a Southern Favorite
Alabama white barbecue sauce has become a top icon in southern white barbecue cuisine. Its versatility makes it not just a purpose table sauce but a staple in any southern kitchen. It’s a great sauce for those looking to try something different from the traditional red BBQ sauce recipes.
Conclusion
This Alabama white barbecue sauce recipe is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the South. With basic ingredients like mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a blend of spices, this tangy white barbecue sauce is not only easy to make but is also a great addition to almost any piece of meat or salad. Next time you’re firing up the grill for your next cookout, don’t forget to whip up a batch of this homemade white BBQ sauce – it might just become your new favorite way to barbecue!
Alabama-Style White Barbecue Sauce
Equipment
- 1 quart mason jar any jar with a lid will work
Ingredients
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup creamy horseradish sauce
- 2 tbsp spicy brown mustard
- 2 tsp worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cayenne
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Place mayonnaise in a 1 quart mason jar.
- Add the heavy cream, apple cider vinegar, prepared horseradish, spicy brown mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
- Shake or whisk vigorously until well mixed. The consistency should be creamy and smooth, with a rich flavor profile from the tangy vinegar and the heat of the cayenne and black pepper.
- Store the sauce in an airtight container or the mason jar in the refrigerator.
